The International Office’s department “International Science” helps refugee scholars and scientists find an occupation at one of the University of Cologne’s Faculties. It also offers support to the UoC’s institutes, chairs, and working groups who would like to host a refugee scholar or scientist. This includes finding suitable support programmes and preparing applications.

The university’s Welcome Centre supports refugee scholars and scientists in all practical questions surrounding their stay in Cologne, including housing, insurance, and childcare. All candidates have access to German as a Second Language courses. In cooperation with the UoC’s Academic Staff Development Department, the Welcome Center is also developing workshops and seminars that help refugee scholars and scientists attain the necessary skills and professional orientation in this new academic environment.

As of February 2017, the University of Cologne has been able to accommodate seven refugee scholars and scientists. They can now pursue their academic career in safety after their flight from their home countries. The applications of further scholars and scientists are currently being reviewed.

Adopt an Academic

Adopt an Academic is a peer-to-peer mentoring program that gives excellent researchers the opportunity to effectively support refugee scholars through academic counselling, systematic network building, and administrative assistance. The project seeks to create an Arab-German network of solidarity.

Media:

Scholarships for Refugee Researchers

With a scholarship from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation a married couple – a dissident philosopher and a jurist – get a chance at a new start at the University of Cologne.

Integration of Refugees into the University System

Call for Donations:

Your donation will contribute to ensuring the successful integration of young, highly motivated young people in Germany. Help them make the most of their potential and become valuable members of our society.

With our university foundation Stiftung Studium und Lehre, we have an effective tool to ensure that your donation gets to those people who need it. Thank you!